Top Sparkling Rosé Under £15

With its delicate effervescence and elegant fruits, Sparkling Rosé is a divine creation, but it can be difficult to find a top-notch bottle. Luckily, we’re here to help. Aren’t we nice?

There’s no need to break the bank with bubbly Rosé, because these amazing Rosés all come in at under £13. We’ve got sweeter strawberry and cream concoctions, refreshing citric creations and everything in-between, so let’s dive into pink paradise.

Martini Prosecco Rosé Extra Dry

This ticks all the boxes for a sweeter sparkling wine with plenty of crisp soft bubbles. Expect succulent strawberry in a starring role, supported by peach and raspberry. Refreshing and fresh, it’s a tip-top dry Rosé for the money.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £6

Canti Rose Extra Dry

Another Glera (Prosecco) and Pinot Noir blend, this expression brings the orchards hints of the former, and the subtle red ripe fruits of the latter. It delivers sweet, juicy, crowd-pleasing fizz that everyone will love. There’s a slight hint of cream lingering at the end too. Nom.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 10.5%
Find here: £7

Gratien & Meyer Crémant De Loire Brut Rosé

Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Cabernet France all come together for this elegant bottle. The bubbles are light and fluffy, the feeling is crisp and dry, and the biscuity hints intertwine wonderfully with aromatic strawberry. A good kick of acid makes it tremendous with food too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £12.50

ASDA Extra Special Prosecco Rosé Brut

If you’re drawn to Rosé with a little tang, then you’ll love this. It’s lovely and light, not overly dry and brimming with sweet strawberry. It feels clean and summery, and really nicely balanced between the sweet berries and pink grapefruit tang. Solid.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £8 (Buy 3 Save 25%)

Freixenet Italian Sparkling Rosé

What’s not to like with this? Inside the signature glamorous bottle is a delicate blend of Glera and Pinot Noir, delivering fine effervescence. Flowery, crisp apples, luscious red berries – it’s got lovely depth of flavour with a food-friendly lightness.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £9 (usually £12)

La Gioiosa Rosea Brut

This is a very nice Italian sparkler indeed. Lovely and light, its red fruits, citrus and orchard fruits are refreshing and delicately poised rather than ripe and sweet. The soft and bubbly mouthfeel is really moreish and overall, it’s a very precise and harmonious expression.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £10

Mirabeau La Folie Sparkling Rosé

The stars have aligned with this one it seems, because it’s currently on offer at loads of supermarkets. We love Mirabeau, and this is a benchmark Provençal pink – crisp, refreshing, and dry. Mango, passion fruit and lime support a gorgeous strawberry note, and it’s one of those smooth and elegant bottles that will win over the Rosé doubters.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £11 (usually more!)

Bartenura Sparkling Moscato Rosé

The sweet nose may draw you to check the alcohol in this Italian fizz, and at 7%, it is indeed sweet – but not at all in a cloying way. Cherry, elderflower, honeysuckle, lemon zest and sweet cream combine for divine expression. There is enough acidity slicing through to remain fresh though, which is what makes this Rosé so appealing.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 7%
Find here: £12.95 (with Nectar)

If you’re after some other drinks for Valentine’s Day, then we’ve got 8 great cocktails that scream ‘I Love You’ here, and yes, it’s fine to treat yourself to one!

The Top 10 UK Cocktail Bars of 2024

Once again, the Top 50 Cocktail Bars of 2024 sponsored by Franklin and Sons has been announced, with a who’s who of drinks writers, businesspeople, and influencers from across the UK deliberating, including our very own Aidy as host!

After much investigation and debate, the highly competitive list has been shortened to 50, and these 10 represent cocktail heaven. The full list is at the bottom of this page for your convenience, so you can find the nearest and greatest cocktail bars in your area... especially with Valentine’s Day coming up. For now, though, let the countdown begin...

10. Tayēr + Elementary, Shoreditch, London

Retaining its top ten spot, Tayēr + Elementary offers something of a dual experience. For high-speed, all-day premium ‘draught’ cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Elementary is where you want to be. But come nighttime, Tayēr awaits through the partition – a world of darkness, changeable exotic concoctions, and a rotation of guest bartenders. Renowned seasonal snacking, a commitment to drinks other than cocktails, brutalist décor and a warm service complete this unique offering.

Address: 152 Old St, London, EC1V 9BW
Website here (walk-ins only)

9. Panda & Sons, Edinburgh

The second highest Scottish bar on the list, Panda & Sons is one you could be forgiven for missing. Stroll past on the hunt for libations, and you might just think it’s a barber shop, but enter, and you’ll be welcomed past the Prohibition face and into speakeasy bliss. Cabinets of curiosities and vintage furniture set in dim light make for a very seductive proposition, not to mention the ‘Chapters’ based menu. Currently, the theme is Transcend, dedicated to innovative freezing techniques researched for 5 years. An incredible science lab-cum-speakeasy experience.

Phone number: 0131 220 0443
Address: 79 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4NF
Book here

8. AMARO Bar, Kensington, London

Rocketing up from 46th place last year is AMARO, a modern take on the classic cocktail bar. It only opened in 2021 with the former head mixologist at the Savoy Elon Soddu at the helm, serving classical twists like the Mango Bellini and Peach 76. Beyond that, more expensive vintage cocktails are available, the priciest of which is the 1980 Boulevardier at £190. The complete drinks selection is really expansive (particularly the whiskey) and the granite bar is stunning.

Phone number: +447745520816
Address: 15 Kensington High St, London W8 5NP
Book here

7. Swift Soho, Soho, London

The shelves at this Old Compton Street spot are bending under awards. With mirrors a-plenty, leather booths and a smorgasbord of unique cocktails, it’s no wonder it’s Top 10 yet again. A buzzing ground floor leads into the basement den where you can find live music, a rotating cocktail theme and over 300 whiskies! It all comes together magnificently.

Address: 12 Old Compton St, London W1D 4TQ
Book here

6. Blinker, Manchester

Into 6th from 41st last year, it’s Blinker in Manchester. Named after a forgotten classic (a cocktail of rye, grapefruit, and raspberry), this bar is all about seasonality and local ingredients. Expect a menu that changes on the monthly, with dedicated Martini and Old Fashioned sections standing out, as well as generous No-Lo serves.

Phone number: 0161 236 8225
Address: 64-72 Spring Gardens, Manchester M2 2BQ
Book here

5. Hey Palu, Edinburgh

The best cocktail bar in Scotland, say Hey to Palu. It’s quaint, intimate, and modern, with a focus on Italian aperitivo styles. Amari, Bitters and Vermouths are everywhere, all soundtracked by killer songs. Expect Negroni and Martini classics, as well as twists like the signature White Strawberry Negroni. Oh, and the bar team are award-winning in themselves! A complete cocktail offering.

Phone number: 0131 285 6752
Address: 49 Bread St, Edinburgh, EH3 9AH
Book here

4. Couch, Birmingham

Narrowly missing out on the Top 10 last year but now up to 4th it’s Couch in Birmingham. Behind the bar is the 2024 Bar Team of the Year, working hard so you can relax and enjoy their cinema-inspired handcrafted cocktails, for example A Bronx Tale with Malfy lemon, blood orange and Cocchi Di Torino Vermouth. Clean, spacious, relaxed and artistic.

Address: 1466 Pershore Rd, Stirchley, Birmingham, B30 2NT
Book here (walk-ins only)

3. Passing Fancies, Birmingham

Step onto the podium now with another Brummie spot – Passing Fancies. Climbing 29 places from last year, this laid-back spot only opened in 2022 but has already established a stellar reputation for its ‘kitchen at a house party’ style. As the name suggests, the team embrace themes and change, but generally specialise in fruity delights like Adult Ribena and Berry Cobbler.

Phone number: 07542 839882
Address: 30 Gibb St, Deritend, Birmingham B9 4BF
Book here

2. Satan’s Whiskers, Bethnal Green, London

In 2nd place, and the highest London finish of the entire list, it’s last year’s winner, Satan’s Whiskers. Rather than the swanky London style, it embraces a more unassuming character – think taxidermy, hip-hop, exposed brick, and unique décor. It’s famous for its community feel, with daily menu changes, expert mixology, and a famous atmosphere. Try the Bloody Mary with tacos and quesadilla if you go.

Phone number: 02077398362
Address: 343 Cambridge Heath Rd, London, E2 9RA
Book here

1. SCHOFIELD'S BAR, Manchester

And it’s Manchester that takes the top spot! It’s Schofield’s Bar, the brainchild of famous Mancunian brothers, not Liam and Noel but Joe and Daniel Schofield. Their iconic venue sits on the corner of art deco beauty Sunlight House and offers reasonably priced classic cocktails and in house twists making use of their 25 years of bartending expertise. It’s such a distinguished bar and the literary themes pull everything together nicely. A worthy winner, and shimmering jewel of the North.

Phone number: 07311 777606
Address: 3 Little Quay Street Sunlight House, Manchester, M3 3JZ
Book here

The Franklin & Sons Top 50 Cocktail Bars 2024:

1. Schofield’s Bar – Manchester

2. Satan’s Whiskers – Bethnal Green

3. Passing Fancies – Digbeth, Birmingham

4. Couch – Stirchley, West Midlands

5. Hey Palu – Edinburgh, Midlothian

6. Blinker – Manchester

7. Swift Soho – London

8. Amaro Bar – Kensington, London

9. Panda and Sons – Edinburgh

10. Tayēr + Elementary – Shoreditch, London

11. Kwãnt – Mayfair, London

12. Speak in Code – Manchester

13. Three Sheets – Dalston, London

14. 🔶🟥🔵 – Hackney, London

15. Murder Inc – Soho, London

16. Tabula Rasa – Leeds

17. Lab 22 – Cardiff

18. Filthy XIII – Bristol

19. Crossroads – Newington Green

20. The Connaught Bar – Mayfair, London

21. Project Halcyon – Manchester

22. SOMA – Soho, London

23. Eve Bar – Covent Garden

24. Side Hustle – Covent Garden

25. The Hideout – Bath

26. Little Mercies – Crouch End, London

27. Below Stairs – Leeds

28. Silverleaf – Spitalfields, London

29. Bar Termini – Soho, London

30. Seed Library – Shoreditch, London

31. Charlie Brown’s – Glasgow

32. Bramble Bar & Lounge – Edinburgh

33. Scarfes Bar – Holborn, London

34. Happiness Forgets – Hoxton, London

35. The Absent Ear – Glasgow

36. 69 Colebrooke Row – Islington, London

37. Artesian – Fitzrovia, London

38. Callooh Callay – Shoreditch, London

39. Fox and Chance – Birmingham

40. The Milk Thistle – Bristol

41. Nauticus – Edinburgh

42. Public – Sheffield

43. The Gate – Glasgow

44. Nightjar – Shoreditch, London

45. Ojo Rojo – Bournemouth

46. The Wildcat – Edinburgh

47. Lyaness – South Bank, London

48. Pennyroyal – Cardiff

49. Bench – Sheffield

50. The American Bar – Auchterarder

8 Cocktails That Scream ‘I Love You’ for Valentine’s Day

You might love it, you might hate it, but Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, so whether you’re on course for a Valentine’s, a Galentine’s or posting a card to yourself, you’ll want something to make it special. These 8 cocktails scream ‘I love you’ because let’s remember, Valentine’s Day isn’t a day for couples, it’s a day for love!

Pink Gimlet

This is a wonderfully harmonious cocktail, bringing fresh grapefruit tang and lime zing, but also delicious fruity sweetness using pink gin. It’s full of flavour, beautifully fresh and looks stunning too.

Ingredients
50ml pink gin
15ml syrup
50ml lime juice
75ml pink grapefruit juice
Rose petals (garnish)

Method
Fill a shaker with ice, add all the above and get shaking. Once nicely chilled, strain into a glass (you might want to double strain if you used fresh fruit for a super smooth cocktail). A few rose petals to finish and it’s perfect.

Bramble

Brambles bring such a delicious combo of rich berries, bright lemon, and tart blackberries, and all with crisp juniper at the heart of it. It’s also got a really cosy feel and looks seductive too.

Ingredients
50ml gin
25ml lemon juice
1 tbsp blackberry liqueur (Crème de Mûre or Crème de Cassis)
1 tbsp sugar syrup
Fresh blackberries (garnish)

Method
Shake everything with ice, and strain over more ice in a rocks glass. If you want some fresh blackberry taste, you can garnish with them, or even muddle them in the bottom of the glass before pouring. Enjoy!

Spicy Margarita

Bringing some spice to your Valentine’s – the Spicy Margarita. And be aware, you might never go back to the regular version. It doesn’t lose the classic essentials and retains the balance of sweet, sour, and earthy notes. There are all kinds of different variations, using different chillis in different amounts, but this is a good amount of heat to start with.

Ingredients
50ml reposado tequila
25ml fresh lime juice
15ml agave syrup
1 slice of chilli (muddled)
2/3 slices of jalapeno (garnish)

Method
Muddle the chillis (however many you enjoy really), in the shaker, and include tequila. Lime and agave syrup. Shake well with ice and strain. Scatter some jalapenos on top, kick back and feel the heat.

Elderflower Cosmopolitan

A standard Cosmo is near perfect for Valentine’s, but we think this floral twist is even better. It’s a delicious, wintery concoction with the cranberry tang out, and the elderflower liqueur in, for a mellow, fragrant florality that dresses the vodka steel nicely. This in one hand, a bunch of flowers in the other – you’re sorted.

Ingredients
45ml vodka
20ml elderflower liqueur
20ml pineapple juice
Dash of lemon
Dash of rose water (optional)
Basil (garnish)

Method
This is all about putting the work in with the shaking. Once it feels icy cold, strain over ice and serve to your Valentine!

Mudslide

A dessert style cocktail is always welcome on Valentine’s Day. We were going to go for chocolate, but how about a Mudslide instead? It’s a 70s adaptation of the White Russian that is now super popular in America, often mixed with ice cream. We think that the ingredients here are too delicious to be drowned in ice cream, but it’s up to you of course. Rich indulgence at its finest.

Ingredients
50ml vodka
50ml coffee liqueur (Kahlúa)
50ml Irish cream liqueur
Grated chocolate (garnish)

Method
Shake all three very well because the vodka needs to be well mixed within the thicker liqueurs. Include ice and stop when it feels cold to the touch, before straining into a Martini glass and going the extra mile with some grated chocolate on top. Mouthwatering

Kir Royale

Champagne is a go to when celebrating, and this French serve embraces all the magic of the city of love. It’s so simple but feels elegant and special. Dreamy blackcurrant liqueur Crème de Cassis brings the berries, and if you don’t want to splash out on a Champagne, a Crémant or Cava will do just fine. If you’re making a meringue dessert, then this is incredible alongside too.

Ingredients
1 tbsp crème de cassis
Champagne
Blackberry or raspberry (optional garnish)

Method
Liqueur first with this cocktail, before topping up your Champagne flute to the top with your fizz. A blackberry or raspberry garnish is a must, and that’s it – a simple but delicious serve.

Love and Murder

For a taste of Valentine’s gone wrong, how about this intriguing cocktail? It’s not for everyone, but you might just absolutely adore it. Bitter Campari and herbaceous green Chartreuse combine with the vibrant zip of fresh lime for a cocktail that forces you to pay attention. The harmony of balance is surprising, but with the subtle salt enhancing the sweetness and balancing out the bitterness slightly, it works a treat.

Ingredients
30ml Campari
30ml green Chartreuse
30ml lime juice
10ml syrup
4 drops of saline solution (kosher salt 1:5 water)

Method
The saline solution is a simple case of dissolving a little salt in water, and remember you only need tiny amounts here to make an almost imperceptible difference. Shake everything with ice and strain into a chilled coupe.

Strawberry Daiquiri

We couldn’t leave this one out. Fully embracing our favourite heart shaped fruits, strawberries are synonymous with love and romance. It’s a misconception that the Daiquiri has to be a sickly-sweet slush puppy. Instead, it can be classy with warming rum, fresh lime, cooling mint and succulent, sweet berries.

Ingredients (jug)
60ml rum (light ideally )
50g fresh strawberries
20ml lime juice
15ml syrup
Strawberry or lime (optional garnish)

Method
Blenders out for this one, but don’t start thinking this is a load of work because we’re just chucking everything in, before a double strain for silky smoothness. If you can use crushed ice to show some love to your blender too that will help. Go for a lime wedge or strawberry with a slice up the middle for garnish. Delicious.

Cocktail syrups are an essential mixology skill, and surprisingly easy to pull together so if you need any for the above recipes click here!

8 Gins to Watch Out for in 2024

Alongside Dry January, there was also Ginuary for those of us still heartily sipping away. Gin has been massively popular for years now, with a steady stream of botanical beauties focusing on sustainability, local ingredients, unique terroir, and innovative, fresh flavours. It helps that the bottles tend to be easy on the eye too.

But, as with any drinks trend, there are some not so impressive bottles sneaking in. With another gincredible year ahead of us, these are some of the bottles we really enjoyed this Ginuary to look out for in 2024.

Sassenach Wild Scottish Gin

We’ve featured some of the Sassenach portfolio a few times because it really is one of the finest ‘celebrity drinks’ going. If you don’t know, it’s the passion project of Outlander star Sam Heughan (aka Jamie Fraser). It’s a London Dry style that brings together 8 Dumfries and Galloway botanicals for remarkable freshness with rhubarb, bramble leaf, crabapple, toasted oats, and heather to name a few. The juniper heart is stunning. From the bottle to the last sip, everything about this gin is stunning.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £44.90

Greater Than Broken Bat Gin

The winner of the Gin Guide Awards for India last year, this is a really interesting London dry style gin because it’s infused with toasted Kashmir willow... sourced from broken cricket bats. The resulting notes of mellow, woody vanilla intertwine with a little sweet spice for a distinct sipper that, at 47%, won’t go unnoticed. More Asian botanical based gins are expected in 2024, and this could be one of the most popular.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 47%
Find here: £36.95

Sir Edmond Gin

This is an incredible smooth Dutch gin with that has picked up some of the most prestigious awards going. If you like vanilla, then you will love this because Réunion Island vanilla takes centre stage alongside prominent juniper. The fundamental botanical backdrop (angelica and cardamom) lay in the wings alongside the warmth of ginger and cinnamon for sweet and earthy gem.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £38.82

Henstone Rosè Gin

There is so much going on with this gin, which goes some way to explaining its emphatic victory in the highly competitive British category at Gin Guide Awards last year. First off, and what hits you on the nose, the oak. It’s aged in American oak giving a richness normally associated with whisky. These earthy woody notes carry a little spice with coriander and cardamom, and in terms of Rosé, expect less berries and more vanilla florality.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 44.9%
Find here: £38.50

Blackeye Gin

Behind this gin are rugby legends Alex Payne, James Haskell, and Mike Tindall, and £1.50 from each sale goes to the Blackeye Rugby Fund to aid research and recovery. It’s citrus forward this one, with a scrum of botanicals from some of the world’s biggest rugby playing nations. It’s even got a secret ingredient don’t you know! For a citrussy G&T, there’s not much better.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £35.95

Sky Wave Signature London Dry Gin

If you’re into gin, then there’s a good chance you’re on board with Sky Wave already, but if not then 2024 is the year for it. A craft distillery from two adventures in Oxfordshire, they celebrate the places they’ve been as well as their home country. They’ve just had a premium rebrand that looks stunning, but more importantly the liquid inside is amazing. Winning gong after gong, their signature London Dry is zinging with crisp and tangy notes and balanced sweetness with locally foraged blackberries and raspberries. It used to be 500ml, but now it’s 700ml, which you will be very grateful for after that first sip.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £41.84 (usually more!)

Ukiyo Yuzu Gin

Yuzu has been one of the botanicals blazing a trail for Asian gins, and we expect that to continue because it is delicious. This Japanese gin makes the most of it, delivering a citrus explosion (similar to grapefruit and mandarin). The base spirit uses distilled shochu, which is redistilled with juniper, mandarin and of course, yuzu. Expect aromatic zest and elegant tang. One for summer.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £36.90

Broken Bones Old Tom Gin

This is one of the best Old Toms we’ve tried. Distilled in Ljublijana, Slovenia, it focuses on local juniper and a big hit of floral botanicals with rosehips and linden flowers. Slovenian honey is added for signature Old Tom sweetness, and it is just so difficult not to love the final expression. Serial award winner, bright with florality and citrus, a little juniper spice – nom. It costs a bit more than most at 500ml, but it is so worth it, honestly.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £44.49

These are the gins we think have a big year ahead of them, but of course there are many more that we loved last year. If a classic G&T is your go to, then what about these beauties?

The Best Wine to Pair with Crisps

A packet of crisps and a glass of wine – these are two of the tastiest things we consume, but except the occasional overlap at a party, we don’t really think of them as a duo. But why not?

Well, wine is usually more associated with fine dining, but good flavour combos are good flavour combos, so there’s nothing to be snobby about with this dreamy pairing. We think of it as a more accessible and versatile alternative to cheese and wine pairings.

On the flipside, if you’re thinking that crisps and wine has the potential to go wrong, then yep, it does. There are some strong flavours and textures involved, but luxury hamper producers Baxters of Scotland and artisan sommelier Rory Anderson have been exploring the very best options.

White Wine

Riesling + Salt & Vinegar Crisps

The ever reliable and food-friendly Riesling is chosen to stand up to the pungent vinegar flavour here, with the razor acidity and fresh citrus softening it. The salty flavours help to emphasise the fruits in the wine, and the fat softens the acidity slightly, resulting in a well-balanced flavour experience.

Chardonnay + Sour Cream & Onion Crisps

Sour Cream & Onion are salty (like any crisp let’s be honest), so the sharp acidity of Chardonnay works nicely as a contrast, as do any tropical notes. The Sour Cream also helps to really emphasise the creamy, buttery notes you find in this style of wine, and the zing brought from both side works wonders.

Red Wine

Malbec + Smoky BBQ Crisps

For Smoky BBQ, you need something to handle the umami saltiness, and Malbec with its plentiful darker fruits, chocolatey spice and even, if you can find one, smoky notes, brings out the spice in the crisp seasoning and complements it greatly. As long as high tannins are avoided (salt amplifies tannins) and there’s decent acidity, this is a wonderfully indulgent combo.

Pinot Noir + Sweet Potato Crisps

A light and fruity Pinot with bright fruits stands up nicely to these moreish crisps. It appeases the sweetness of the potato but not enough to overpower them, and brings enough diverse earthy, fruity notes to add depth to the sweetness. Also, it’s usually lower tannins than most reds so you won’t run the risk of bitter tastes coming through.

Rosé

Provence Rosé + Prawn Cocktail Crisps

Prawn Cocktails’ notorious pong is love or hate for many, and there’s a lot going on to match up with. A light, dry and crisp Provence Rosé will work with the diverse sweetness, tang, and creamy flavours of the crisps. The understated sweetness will really come through with those berries and that florality.

Grenache Rosé + Thai Sweet Chilli Sensations Crisps

A more fruit-forward Grenache Rosé can contrast pleasantly with the warm spice of Thai Sweet Chilli. The extra sweetness of this style of Rosé also helps to balance the heat and should even out harmoniously. Ideally, a good acidic kick to bring some refreshment will cleanse the palate between crunches too.

Sparkling Wine

Champagne + Ready-Salted Crisps

A plain, super salty original crisp is pure carbs, fat and surprise surprise, salt. It’s a hell of a job to carve through all of that, so high acidity is required, and also something lovely and refreshing. There’s a simplicity to this combination that is so moreish, as the bubbles and elegance reset the palate before another crunch of crisp.

Wine is obviously incredible on its own, but if you’re yet to truly experience it alongside the right food companion, then you’re missing out big time. We’ve got loads of guides up now, like our Classic Cheese and Wine Matches for example!

What Should I Drink With Chinese Food?

It’s difficult to generalise when it comes to pairing drinks with Chinese food. There are ‘eight great’ culinary traditions across the country, and on top of that some like Cantonese have been heavily anglicised for British tastes.

Having said that, the same pairing rules apply, which is lighter liquids for lighter dishes, bigger and more robust drinks for equivalent dishes. There is plenty of sweetness, sourness, and spice at play so pairing drinks with Chinese food does have the potential to go badly wrong. However, we’re here to help! Chinese New Year is February 10th, so if you’re celebrating or just fancy a Chinese feast, then we’ve got some recommendations below.

White Wine

Riesling

There’s a reason Riesling is a stalwart of these guides. If we’re have to pick one drink to pair with Chinese food, then it’s Riesling. More specifically, Spätlese Riesling, which just means late harvest grapes, so you get extra sweetness driving through, as well as that hefty kick of acidity. There’s a richness there usually, but the sweetness isn’t cloying at all – think more fruity, less cloying. That fruity sweetness makes is one of the few white wines that works well with Peking duck, slicing through the fatty meat but complimenting plum sauce. Any sweet and sour dishes and noodle-based dishes with a little grease – Riesling work great. Sesame chicken too. And seafood. Riesling is just so adaptable.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 9%
Find here: £5.75 (usually more!)

Red Wine

Syrah/Shiraz

Syrah or Shiraz (they’re the same grape remember) can be great with some Chinese dishes. Find an Australian Shiraz (Clare Valley for example) with fine tannins, sweetness, and peppery, smoky, richness and you’re onto a winner. Jammy, red fruits alongside the above traits will work so well with Peking duck and spicier dishes like beef in black bean sauce. It might be wise to avoid very light dumplings and other starters with Shiraz though, because it may overpower.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £13.99

Grenache

Big, super fruity reds like Mourvèdre or Grenache come into play for hotter dishes, without the tannins to overdo the spice. Glazed ribs, black bean sauces, Szechuan beef – ripe reds can deal with it. Like the Shiraz, we would avoid these with lighter starters though. You could go down the Grenache Rosé route too for a well-rounded option – with a little acidity and fruity sweetness to play with.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £8.49

Sparkling Wine

Champagne

A crisp sparkler is always going to an option because of their world-beating palate-cleansing nature. Of course, Champagne is on the premium end of things, and Cava/Crémant, English Fizz and even Prosecco would work too, but as an all-rounder, this is a dreamy combo. A chilled glass eases the burn of spicier dishes and the fizz cleanses the grease. We want a Brut Champagne with some richness to cope with sweet and sour flavours too, and something like this can be the companion for spring rolls, dumplings, dim sum, shellfish, and spicier dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £47.50

BEER

Wheat and White Beer

Light witbiers (wheat) and Bavarian weissbiers (white) work nicely with Chinese food, so long as it isn’t super intense. Lighter prawn starters, dumplings, spring rolls and some sweet and sour flavours – then beer is great. Witbier is typically filtered less and delivers a counterbalancing citrus with refreshing softness.

Size: 330ml
ABV: 4.9%
Find here: £6 (4 x 300ml)

We’ve got a number of food and drinks pairing guides up now, so search for what you need, and chances are we have it! How about Sushi? Or Thai?

10 Craft Beers to Try from Across the UK

We’ve all heard of craft beers, but where to actually start? With such a flourishing scene for over a decade now, it can be intimidating to get involved, but you’re missing out if not. We’ve gathered a diverse range of excellent craft beers from across the UK, from citric refreshers to chocolatey stouts.

Trust us, beer has come a long way from medieval ‘liquid bread’, and there’s so much more to it than pub lager. Have a scroll and see which of these takes your fancy and begin your craft beer journey today.

Fyne Ales Jarl

The current CAMRA Champion Beer of Scotland, Jarl is seriously well put together, easy-drinking golden ale. It’s light, full of grapefruit and lemon, with a clean, crisp feel and a little biscuity malt and subtle grassiness to round it off. This farm brewery was one of the first in the UK to use citra hops, and Jarl was their flagship trailblazer for the successful outcome of those experiments.  

Size: 500ml
ABV: 3.8%
Price: £31.20 12 x 500ml

Lost and Grounded Keller Pils

An ever-popular beer in Bristol, this is a class above your run of the mill lager. Taking inspiration from German brewing, it’s Lost and Grounded’’s top seller, with drinkers returning to its precision balance. It’s dry, crisp, clean, and fresh with hoppy depths for refreshing bitterness.

Size: 440ml
ABV: 4.8%
Price: £2.80 1 x 440ml

Beavertown Neck Oil London

One of the better-known craft beers, this is a lovely hoppy one that you’ll be able to pick up in many supermarkets and probably hear being praised a lot. It has picked up some prestigious gongs in its time, with its light, zingy brightness, and is a fantastic first stop on your craft beer journey. Think tropical fruits like passionfruit and grapefruit before an utterly refreshing finale.

Size: 330ml
ABV: 4.3%
Price: £2.50 1 x 330ml

Samuel Smith Organic Chocolate Stout

Drinkers rave about this English Stout and we can see why. Organic chocolate malt is gently roasted, joining organic cocoa for a full, luscious, creamy feel. The flavours are so satisfying and luxurious, with soft caramel, lingering malt, and incredible chocolate. It’s not as heavy as you might expect either, with a little carbonation for edge.

Size: 550ml
ABV: 5%
Price: £3.70 for 1

Traquair House Brewery Jacobite

This Scotch ale uses an ingredient always, until modern times, used in beer making and that’s coriander. The brewery itself is in Scotland’s oldest inhabited house and uses a 1738 copper kettle and oak fermenters for this fine ale. The colour is similar to cola, and the first whiff brings gentle spice and molasses. After the first sip, the sweet malts and dried fruits come through with complexity, before a malty wash finish.

Size: 330ml
ABV: 8%
Price: £3.75 for 1

Old Engine Oil Craft Stout - Harviestoun

Staying in Scotland, this old favourite has been around for years, providing an exceptionally engineered, velvety, dark, and rich stout. Premium roasted malt coats the mouth so smoothly as the mocha aroma continues into the palate, joined by cream and vanilla. It’s bulky and bold, and oh so satisfying.

Size: 330ml
ABV: 6%
Price: £44.24 24 x 330ml

Full Circle Brew Co. Looper IPA

Up in Newcastle, this is Full Circle’s flagship IPA and it’s building quite the reputation. It’s all about citrus refreshment, with juicy, zesty grapefruit and a surprising sweetness to the lemon. The pillowy feel is dreamy too, carrying the classic IPA bitterness with a trio of citra, mosaic and cashmere hops.

Size: 440ml
ABV: 6.4%
Price: £3.77 for 1

Cloudwater Fuzzy Hazy Pale

With a cult following in Manchester, Cloudwater are one craft brewery well worth keeping an eye on. They’ve only been around for about a decade but have already developed a rock solid portfolio of industry acclaimed, super popular top-quality beers. Fuzzy is part of their core range, bringing loveable brightness and stone fruits. Peach and apricot intertwine with vibrant citrus, grassy notes and well carbonated softness. Clean refreshment.

Size: 440ml
ABV: 4.2%
Price: £12 x 440ml

JW Lees Harvest Ale

This is a very prestigious ale that uses only the finest malts and earliest hops of the year. This particular ale has gained a cult following amongst enthusiasts, with robust and characterful vintages with each release. In the barleywine style (complexity and higher ABV%), it ages well and delivers a caramel nose, with rich and full figs, dried fruits, oak, and leather. It’s heavy but smooth, with zero cloying whatsoever. Legendary.

Size: 275mll
ABV: 11.5%
Price: £14.85 3 x 275ml

Buxton Brewery Yellow Belly

We’ve included this as an example of premium beer, more precisely American Imperial Stout. The whole concept of this beer is to ridicule the cowardly nature of racist groups, particularly anonymous ones, which explains the paper packaging (reminiscent of the KKK) and its controversy in America. The beer inside celebrates open mindedness and difference with interesting flavours. It’s a peanut butter biscuit stout, but with no biscuits, butter, or nuts! It’s velvety and chocolatey with roasted malt and restrained sweetness, perfectly executed for bold and big flavours. One of the most celebrated stouts on the planet.

Size: 330ml
ABV: 11%
Price: £9 1 x 330ml

If you’re looking into craft beer as part of a wider drink’s exploration, then how about discovering mead? You might surprise yourself! Take a look here.

8 Unusual Alcoholic Drinks That Actually Taste Good

These drinks may have eyebrow raising ingredients or concoctions, but when you take that first sip, you can expect enough eyebrow raise because they are delicious. Great drinks aren’t afraid to experiment and innovate, and these do just that. Sometimes it doesn’t work, but here it most definitely does. So, if you’re after a curious bottle to gift for someone’s birthday, or perhaps a Valentine’s Present, then explore these tasty creations below.

Ukiyo Blossom Gin

Produced in the shadow of the Sakurajima volcano, the outcome is a delicate, fantastically floral gin. Shōchū spirit is distilled again with juniper, local mandarin orange, and a host of Japanese botanicals, the most stand out of which is aromatic cherry blossom. It’s light and bright but has earth juniper and angelica root too. The Sakura flower inclusion is strong no doubt, and won’t please everyone, but if you love it, you’ll really love it. We can’t not mention this bottle too, which is absolutely stunning and 100% a must keep once you’ve drained it.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Price: £36.99 (usually more!)

Jaffa Cake Gin

This is one of those gins that will pique your curiosity, and if you’re anything like us, you’ll be desperate to try. This timeless treat has been repurposed to flavour gin, but don’t go thinking it’s overly sweet and unnatural. Fresh orange peel is used, cocoa powder and get this, actual Jaffa cakes for that authentic, unmistakable taste. Far from being just a gimmick, this won the most prestigious award for flavoured gin in 2021, as well as other top awards, praised for its delicacy, balance and crowd-pleasing flavour. It’s become iconic for a Negroni so give it a go!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Price: £29.95

The Kraken Black Spiced Rum - Roast Coffee

This is a really interesting sipper. It brings the sweetness of a cold brew Arabica coffee and therefore more of a liqueur vibe than a rum (though at 40%, be careful). If you’re into pure rums then this probably isn’t for you, but if you love coffee and sweeter rums, you have to try this. It’s unique in this space, with a dessert style to it. It’s smooth, the spice holds strong, particularly on the finish. The Kraken awakes!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Price: £26.90

Captain Morgan Tiki Mango & Pineapple Spirit

This is a full, unashamed celebration of tropical rum. Inside the devilish tiki bottle is a much lighter but still punchy rum spirit compared with the original, but don’t be expecting a dark rum like that. The pineapple and mango are sweet and vibrant, but there’s enough bitterness for balance too with a little pepper for warmth. If someone is into cocktails, then this would be a great addition for a splash of sunshine.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Price: £19.95

Tequila Rose Strawberry Liqueur

Tequila Rose has icon status by now, providing many a tequila shot alternative that actually tastes nice. Tequila spirit is joined by strawberry cream liqueur, a mix that won’t please too many agave purists, but the results are splendid. It’s deliciously sweet and creamy like a grown-up strawberry milkshake. Yes it’s not the most complex and challenging drink in the world, far from it, but if you want a tasty boozy treat that is guaranteed to hit the spot, tequila rose is tailor made for it

Size: 700ml
ABV: 15%
Price: £13.75

1800 Coconut Spirit

This is lighter, coconut spin on a silver Blanco Tequila, a flavour that you don’t usually associate with the Mexican spirit. Nonetheless, it works. The grassy agave still comes through, matching up with the natural coconut flavouring nicely. The smoothness is incredible, and there are all kinds of cocktails it would elevate. Imagine a less creamy Piña Colada and you’re getting there – curious and divine.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 35%
Price: £39.49

Sheep Dog Peanut Butter Liqueur

How about this for an American delight? Whiskey with peanut butter. It’s nutty paradise and would be so good in cocktails. Imagine a peanut butter Old Fashioned? Creamy oak and vanilla come through as the nuttiness fades away on the finish, and it’s just so easy drinking. Don’t think of it as a flavoured whiskey, it’s very much its own thing, and if you like peanut butter and whiskey, it would be so difficult not to love this.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 35%
Price: £21.95 (usually more!)

Puschkin Nuts & Nougat Liqueur

Forget chocolate bars, we’re talking about nuts and nougat in booze. More specifically, vodka. Puschkin make award-winning vodka, so the base spirit here is fantastically smooth, and now it’s got this ‘Kinder Bueno’ esque twist, it is to die for. The balance is spot on with this one, and it really is dangerously easy to drink.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 17.5%
Price: £12.94 (usually more!)

If you want to take a look as some weird but wonderful bottles, have a gander at these.